If it happened to your child, how would you feel?

This is an excerpt from a posting I made on a message site this morning after the Richard Zednik incident in Buffalo. See some of the feedback below my posting... interesting to say the least.

Titled: Now how uncomfortable are they?

As a minor hockey coach in the female game, I was watching the Richard Zednik incident yesterday and I couldn't help recalling a conversation I had with a coach from the US. I asked him why his players didn't wear neck protection but had mouth guards?

His answer: The girls say they are uncomfortable, they don't like wearing them.

More uncomfortable than watching, or god forbid, experiencing first hand the tragic scenario that played out in Buffalo?

I've had players complain about them and try and sneak on at practice without. They are sent back to the room, or just not allowed to participate. There can be no gray area when it comes to safety.

US Hockey should make these mandatory equipment. I can't for the life of me, see why teeth are more important than one of the most vulnerable exposed areas.

I hope this is a wake-up call

Additional Details

I am talking about MINOR hockey here. Mandatory for the past 10 or 15 years here in Canada, for BOTH genders.

I just found the explanation a bit laughable.

Protect the kids. Let the Pros do whatever they see fit. More protection probably means the sticks will be carried higher and with even less respect than now.

For me, it's all about the kids.

Answers to the posting:

• Disagree

  
  
• cambo-Its happened twice in the last 17 years.Accidents do happen and you cant expect them to play in bubble wrap.To me I think the most vulnerable spot is the eyes.
  
  I agree though they should have put up nets behind each goal before that young lady got killed a few years back after the slapshot.

  
  
• That's humans for ya. Keep putting things off until someone dies. It is such a rare occurrance though, but something can be done about it. I'm sure if there was enough interest in neck protection, enough time and money could result in a comfortable and effective piece of equipment.

  
  
• And just how many times in the entire history of hockey has this ever happened? I'm not saying that it shouldn't be worn at all (I think they should be worn by kids when they play) but unless this is a recurring problem, I don't think it should be addressed. And frankly, if we tried to protect people from everything in hockey, no one would watch it.

Some have missed the point entirely but, that I guess is also human nature....